Lakers Defeat Suns 128-122 in Overtime: Rookie Dalton Knecht Shines in Preseason Dress Rehearsal

Rookie Dalton Knecht Shines

The Lakers headed to Phoenix on Thursday night with a well-laid plan to mimic a regular-season game against the Suns. They aimed to get into their game-day routine, extending starters’ minutes and running through their scouting report. But as head coach JJ Redick pointed out, the best-laid plans often go awry in the NBA.

“You don’t often get to live in an idealized world in this league, and that’s OK,” Redick said before the game. Prioritizing player health was key, so LeBron James would take extra rest, Rui Hachimura would sit with calf tightness, and Austin Reaves would be cautious with his sore ankle. Gabe Vincent and Max Christie were also held back to ensure they didn’t push their injuries.

Despite these changes, the Lakers still managed to stick to their pregame routine, with Cam Reddish and Christie stepping up to the starting lineup. Redick indicated that James would likely rest again in their upcoming preseason finale against Golden State.

Anthony Davis shone on the court, playing 34 minutes and scoring 35 points, including a hot start with four three-pointers in the first quarter. But it was rookie Dalton Knecht who really stole the spotlight. He exploded for 25 of his 35 points in the fourth quarter and overtime, hitting a crucial three-pointer over 7-foot-3 Bol Bol to push the game into overtime, supported by an enthusiastic bench.

Devin Booker led the Suns with 22 points, and Kevin Durant added 19. Yet, the Lakers faced their own challenges as Redick confirmed that Jarred Vanderbilt wouldn’t be available for the opening night, despite positive strides in his recovery from offseason foot surgeries.

“His rehab is progressing well, but we likely won’t have an update for the next two weeks,” Redick said, emphasizing the need for a long-term perspective. “We want to make sure he’s right.”

As the preseason wraps up, Redick and the Lakers remain focused on the bigger picture, aware that they still have time to prepare for the regular season ahead.

Lakers Defeat Suns 128-122 in Overtime: Rookie Dalton Knecht Shines in Preseason Dress Rehearsal